Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill. -Christopher Parker
My confession:
I procrastinate when I have the least willpower. My mind thinks it needs to be doing something but does not have the willpower to tackle anything challenging. So, it starts to tackle all sorts of easy things: Facebook, Instagram, Netflix, YouTube...you name it. My mind can be unbelievably productive in all the “wrong” things. Aka, all the things that add little to no value to my life.
In those moments, I end up feeling bad about myself. At this point, I could choose to stay feeling bad about myself, or I could find better solutions.
I start by taking responsibility for my actions. I cannot tackle a gargantuan-sized task, but I could start on smaller tasks involving smaller mental stretches outside my comfort zone.
Life example:
I set out to do 1 mile per day and was crushing it for the first 50-ish days. But then life happened, and now I’m 35 days (or 35 miles behind). That seems like a freaking monster to me! So, I’m naturally intimidated by it. Procrastination is often my go-to choice when I fall behind in any task. So, I take a deep breath and start again. And, with that breath, I’ve created a newfound space where I can brainstorm high-vibe solutions.
Realistically, I cannot do 35 miles in a day. But, I could do 2. That’s a tiny stretch that, in 17.5 days, I could catch up! And, when I feel myself growing bolder, I could do 3 miles per day, cutting it down to ~12 days (etc.).
But this framework may not work for you.
Another way of looking at this is in terms of the time needed to complete a task. For example, I can better make up my slack by committing to a specific time frame on the treadmill. In other words, I am better able to conceptualize time vs. miles. So, 1 hour vs. 3 miles is much clearer for me.
This is important because when you aren’t clear on how much effort a task will take, it could drain your willpower faster, leading you to quit.
Try what works best for you, start where you are, and consider what you can commit to now. Remember, your goal should be connected to your personal growth.
Tips to end procrastination:
Building willpower and beating procrastination can be challenging but rewarding. Start by setting clear, specific, and achievable goals, breaking them into smaller tasks, creating a structured plan with deadlines, and focusing your willpower on completing these smaller tasks one at a time. Finally, celebrate small victories to build a sense of accomplishment and momentum toward bigger goals.
NOTE- Many of these suggestions awaken your senses and creative potential.
Eliminate distractions
Practice mindfulness
Make it fun- listen to music
Work outside of home- library or coffee shop
Have an accountability buddy
Use inspiring oils or scents- citrus is my favorite!
Get present
Forgive yourself
Create goals that stretch you (start small)
Make sure that these goals are reachable, specific, and easy to understand
Keep the list going: What are some things you do to end procrastination?
Closing thoughts:
Remember to go easy on yourself when confronting procrastination because guilt will only work to keep you stuck. Surprisingly, guilt is an emotional indicator you need to practice self-forgiveness.
Why self-forgiveness? Forgiving yourself for procrastinating is important because it helps you let go of past mistakes, freeing your mind and emotions to grow and follow your true potential with confidence and freedom. And with this newfound freedom, imagine what you can create in the world!
Amor y Canela
Monica
